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June 7 - Ruth 1
Reflection Questions
Understanding the Passage
- How does understanding the historical context of famine, widowhood, and life as a foreigner deepen your appreciation of Ruth 1?
- Naomi repeatedly says that God has turned against her. Do you think Naomi was right? Why or why not?
- The sermon described hesed as faithful, covenant love that refuses to give up. Where do you see examples of hesed love in this chapter?
- How is Ruth's commitment to Naomi similar to the kind of love Jesus calls His followers to demonstrate?
Suffering, Grief, and Faith
- Naomi is brutally honest about her pain and disappointment with God. What can Christians learn from her example?
- The sermon suggested that Naomi's pain distorted how she viewed God and her circumstances. How can suffering sometimes affect our perspective?
- How can we distinguish between our feelings about God and what is actually true about God?
Ruth's Conversion and Faith
- Ruth chooses to follow Yahweh despite seeing Naomi's suffering. What makes her decision so remarkable?
- Why is it significant that God chose a former Moabite woman to become part of the family line of King David and Jesus?
- What does Ruth's inclusion in God's story teach us about God's grace and His heart for outsiders?
Personal Application
- Which person do you identify with most right now—Naomi, Ruth, or perhaps Orpah? Why?
- The sermon asked: "Where might my pain be blinding me to a gift of God?" How would you answer that question today?
- Is there someone in your life right now who needs a "Ruth"—someone willing to stay, listen, and support them?
- How can we maintain healthy boundaries while still carrying one another's burdens?
